vindictive
vin-DIK-tiv
/vɪnˈdɪk.tɪv/
Having or showing a strong or unreasoning desire for revenge.
Implies an obsessive, bitter focus on repaying real or perceived slights.
The story behind the word. Derived from Latin 'vindex', meaning a claimant, defender, or avenger. Historically connected to legal protection, the word gradually shifted over centuries to describe an obsessive personal impulse to punish foes.
Word relationships
- vengeful: Vengeful highlights the act of seeking revenge; vindictive implies a bitter, petty disposition.
- spiteful: Spiteful focuses on petty annoyance; vindictive focuses on calculated revenge.
- forgiving: Willing to pardon offenses without seeking retaliation.
- magnanimous: Generous and forgiving toward rivals or less powerful people.
Commonly confused with
- vindicated: Vindicated means proven right or cleared of blame, whereas vindictive means seeking revenge.
Word family
- vindictively (adverb): In a manner that seeks revenge.
- vindictiveness (noun): The quality of desiring revenge.
Collocations
- vindictive streak
- vindictive nature
- vindictive pleasure
Idioms & expressions
- settle a score
- pay back in kind
Example sentences
- "The novel's antagonist was driven by a vindictive feud that lasted decades." Literary analysis
- "Critics denounced the treaty as a vindictive measure meant to crush the defeated nation." Historical commentary
Memory hook
Think of someone seeking 'vindication' through endless, bitter 'vindictive' revenge. Vindex means avenger; vindictive means driven to get even.
When not to use
Do not use for temporary annoyance or mild irritation that passes quickly.
Fun facts
- The root 'vindex' also gives us 'vindicate' and 'vanguard' through historical linguistic shifts.
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